While millions around the globe fight the battles of World War II, Max Bonner, a young pilot, fights his battles on the home front. An attempted seduction, lies, small-town scandal, and the murder of his brother propel Max to seek justice. When his plan goes awry, Max is forced to run for his life. He escapes at the expense of a powerful, bitter man and takes off on a picaresque journey of self-discovery. While a fugitive, Max stays one step ahead of disaster as he flies for a war profiteer, hooks up with a memorable crop duster, encounters an ethically challenged evangelist, and meets the love of his life. But how can he reach a separate peace and find redemption? ******** "Sharp-edged and passionate in its intensity, Take Off is most assuredly a maturation novel reminiscent of Faulkner at his best. Take Off shines with the promise of a bright future for its author, Peter Shianna. The writing is crisp, clean and refreshingly spare. Congratulations, Mr. Shianna; this book will be read and remembered " -Under the Covers Book Reviews "Peter Shianna captures the feel of wartime America in Take Off. A sparse, straightforward narrative style pulls the reader into this world and breathes life into the characters who shape it. Four stars " -Affaire de Coeur